Destination weddings have been gaining popularity over the past decade. While many couples are now choosing to have destination weddings over traditional celebrations, there is still a lack of information for couples planning their weddings away. Having a destination wedding brings up a whole new set of planning and etiquette questions. So what’s the answer to some of the most common destination wedding etiquette questions? Check out these popular questions. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Ask our advisory Board.  

Who pays? 
The lines are blurred these days when it comes to who pays for the wedding whether it be a traditional, close-to-home wedding or one at an exotic locale. It’s safe to assume you and your fiancé will need to pay for the wedding expenses yourselves. While many parents offer to help, most couples at least contribute to the cost of their weddings. Don’t ask for a contribution from either of your parents. However, if your families offer, it is perfectly find to accept.  

As for your guests’ travel accommodations, they are responsible for paying for their own expenses. You can help out if you want to, however. You may decide to pay for airport transfers or breakfast throughout the week if you choose to stay at a resort without and all-inclusive package.  

To register or not to register… 
Many couples planning destination weddings are unsure whether or not they should start wedding registries. Some couples prefer not to register because they don’t want their guests to buy them gifts in addition to paying to attend the wedding. However, some guests will still want to get you gifts, so give everyone the option.  

Register at the department or houseware stores so traditional guests can find the perfect gifts. If you want to set up a honeymoon registry, feel free to do so – just make sure you set up a traditional registry too. If guests prefer to give you cash or contribute towards the cost of your honeymoon, they will have the option. If guests aren’t given the option, they may take it upon themselves to select housewares for you, which may not be what you want or need.  

Hosting a party at home after the destination wedding 
Some couples choose to throw parties after the wedding and invite those who weren’t able to make the trip, which is perfectly acceptable. Include information on the second party with the invitations so guests know about it ahead of time. Those who can’t afford the trip will likely appreciate the invite.  

Remember that a party after the wedding should not serve as a second reception. Don’t redo the ceremony and have a first dance at a second reception. Instead, eat, let people toast you and share photos from your incredible destination wedding and honeymoon. If you want to have a second wedding of sorts, consider a destination vow renewal.  

Pre-wedding parties  
Pre-wedding parties are completely acceptable for destination wedding couples. Make sure you register with your favorite housewares or department store well in advance! Many destination wedding couples have wedding showers and bachelor and bachelorette parties prior to their weddings. Showers are typically held months before the wedding and the bachelor and bachelorette parties can be held right before the wedding or a few months prior. Some couples having destination weddings opt to spend a little longer at their destinations and have bachelor and bachelorette parties in exotic locales.  

Remember that showers and bachelor and bachelorette parties are typically given to you as gifts from your wedding party or close family members, so don’t plan your own.  

Leaving for the honeymoon  
After the wedding ends, guests don’t go home – at destination weddings, many of them stay for days and choose to enjoy a mini vacation. While this is a benefit of destination weddings, you might not want to spend your honeymoon with your Uncle Dave, Aunt Susan and their wild children.  

If you prefer to have a private honeymoon with your new husband or wife, don’t feel bad about leaving the destination. Book your honeymoon at a neighboring resort or travel to another destination. Your guests certainly won’t expect you to spend your honeymoon with them, don’t worry about hurting anyone’s feelings.  

By: Lauren Finnegan